Imagine yourself standing in the middle of a California pine forest early in the morning, before the first rays of sunlight have time to disperse the thin layer of mist. The air is fresh, carrying the distinctive scent of pine resin mixed with a hint of citrus from the nearby fruit orchards. In your hand is a glass of amber-colored beer, with a white foam floating, and the aroma spreading like a mesmerizing olfactory awakening.
But what makes Aroma Coma different is more than just that first sensation. Each sip is a step into a rich world of flavors, where aroma is no longer a secondary element, but the soul of the experience. This is not just a beer – it is a story told through aroma, taste and emotion.
1. Drake's Brewing Co: From Old Brewery To Western IPA Icon
Drake's Brewing Co. was founded in 1989 in San Leandro, California, as the Lind Brewing Company. Set up in a former Caterpillar Inc. plant, tucked behind a Walmart, it was an unlikely location to become the birthplace of one of the West Coast's most beloved IPAs. But something magical happened.
In 2008, the brewery was taken over by John Martin and Roy Kirkorian, who had a passion for craft beer and an ambition to expand. They not only expanded the brewery, but also brought a creative, modern, yet nostalgic spirit to it. Taprooms like Barrel House, Dealership in Oakland, and The Barn in West Sacramento were born not only to serve beer, but also to serve as meeting places for the beer-loving community.
In that context, Aroma Coma was born in 2009 – a bold statement that aroma could also be the soul of an IPA.
2. Fragrance Is the Hero: Stories from the Hop Garden
Aroma Coma is more than just an IPA – it’s an aromatic explosion. Featuring signature hops like Cascade, Chinook, CTZ, and especially Citra, each contributing its own nuances: from crisp citrus to powerful pine and soft floral. The combination creates a complex and captivating aroma spectrum that’s distinctly American.
But what makes Aroma Coma really stand out is the process. late-hopping and double dry-hop, a technique that allows the most volatile and aromatic compounds to be retained. The result is a beer that awakens all the senses in just the first breath.
With an alcohol content of 6.7%, the beer is not too heavy but enough to create a warm, strong feeling. The velvety foam combined with the bright amber color creates a great visual feeling, giving way to a bitter taste on the tongue, a clean, dry aftertaste and a lingering aftertaste reminiscent of summer afternoons in the California sea.
3. Enjoy Aroma Coma Like an Artisan
An Aroma Coma deserves to be enjoyed in the most formal way. Pour the beer into a tulip glass – this glass helps to retain and concentrate the aromas, while allowing the head to develop thickly and evenly. The ideal serving temperature is 10–13°C, which helps to maximize the citrus, pine and deep floral aromas.
Suggested side dishes:
- Spicy foods like Thai or Indian curries – the aroma and bitterness will balance the heat.
- Sweet BBQ ribs – to enhance the rich flavor.
- Cheese: Mature Cheddar, Smoked Gouda or even blue cheese for the taste-challenged.
Choosing the right food to accompany your beer can elevate the experience immensely, turning every sip into a symphony of cuisine and craft.
4. Aroma Coma: From Local Icon to National Sensation
In its first year of release, Aroma Coma made the top three at a local IPA festival – no easy feat for a new beer. It quickly became a summer phenomenon, appearing periodically as a sought-after limited edition. Some have called Aroma Coma “the essence of West Coast summer” – where sunshine, sea breezes and craft beer come together.
Many Drake's fans say they'd drive hundreds of miles just to enjoy a refreshing Aroma Coma right at the taproom. Because more than a drink, it's a moment to slow down, connect with nature and with yourself.
5. Conclusion: When Beer Can Also Inspire
Aroma Coma is a symbol of dedication, creativity and passion. Every sip is a journey – from the green hop fields to the hands of the brewers, from the bustling taproom to the peaceful afternoon on the porch.
If you are looking for a truly memorable experience in the world of craft beer – this is the ideal choice.
Are you ready to be mesmerized?
Raise a glass of Aroma Coma – and let it tell you a wordless story, written in scent and memory.
Vietnamese
English
Japanese
German